So the gist of the story is that two strangers—Cooper Owens and Emery Reed, embark on a journey to self-discovery and self-awakening... At first I did a double-take and I was like, did I get the names mixed out? No, I didnt. Cooper Owens is indeed the name of the female protagonist and Emery Reed is the name of the male protagonist. What unique names!
Anyway... On to the story... So Cooper was working as waitress in a diner when Emery came in to eat... and of course, something crackles in the air between them and when it was time for Emery to leave, he randomly invited Cooper along to come with him... Now I know what you're thinking... No, they didnt do anything naughty— at first. The build up between these two is just soooo toe-curling! As I was turning page after page, I kept on anxiously asking myself, will they finally be together, together or nah? Just when you think you've finally figured them out, a curve ball is coming at you unexpectedly...
This kinda' reminded me of my favorite book couples— Andrew Parrish and Camryn Bennett from JA Redmerski's The Edge Of Never... though overall the story is different, but still the going-on-a-trip-with-a-stranger reminded of them...
This story is the right amount of angsty. The push and pull of the characters sometimes frustrated me but I understand it was needed because it talked about deep troubling emotions. I can related to the fact, that the war inside our head really does destroy us physically and emotionally, and it puts a strain on our relationships with other people... that bit was so relatable.
I'm glad this book talked about it... that it'll make some people think and that it's not about them but the person going through it... to never give up on them and just be their strength when they need it... I was fighting so hard to keep my tears at bay... I was like, this was how I felt when my father died... I'm just thankful that God gave me strength— mentally and physically, and that I have a family who loves me... I know not everybody can relate to it, but still talking about it in the story would convey consciousness, and induce patience from those who see it. It really is hard fighting not to succomb to your demons, and drown in your own sorrows.
Overall, its a beautiful love story—it teaches you about patience, resilience, empathy, strength, overcoming stigma and taking necessary risks to get out of the rut you're stuck in... The pacing, the characters, the storyline— everything just meshed really well. Although the epilogue was great, I would've wanted to read more about them having their own little family...lol sorry, I'm being such a romantic sap right now.
Love this book! 2 thumbs up to the author!
Release Date: November 16th, 2017.
